The Toronto academic community and environmental advocacy world are mourning the sudden passing of Dr. Sheila Colla, an Associate Professor at York University and a tireless advocate for native pollinators and biodiversity. Dr. Colla, a respected ecologist, researcher, and educator, passed away unexpectedly, leaving behind a legacy of groundbreaking work, passionate mentorship, and deep concern for the future of our planet.
Sheila Colla Toronto ON Obituary
Based in Toronto, Ontario, Dr. Colla was a key figure in the fight to protect endangered bumblebee species across Canada and beyond. Her research was not just academically rigorous—it was personal. She was among the first in Canada to raise awareness about the dramatic declines in wild bee populations and the broader implications for ecosystems and food systems. Sheila’s work was instrumental in driving national conversation and policy changes surrounding pollinator conservation.
At York University, where she served in the Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change, Sheila Colla was known for her brilliance, generosity, and unwavering commitment to both science and social justice. Her students admired her for being both an inspiring educator and a compassionate mentor. She empowered young scientists, especially women and underrepresented voices, encouraging them to ask hard questions, speak up, and challenge systemic inequities in science and conservation.
Her work extended well beyond the classroom. As a public scientist, Sheila frequently collaborated with community organizations, indigenous groups, and environmental NGOs. Her voice was sought after in the media and policy circles alike, not only for her expertise in pollinator ecology but also for her fierce advocacy for science-informed environmental action.
Colleagues remember her as a force of nature—brilliant, brave, and bold. She was never afraid to speak the truth, especially when it came to the protection of our environment or the need for equity and inclusion in science. Dr. Colla co-authored several influential publications and served as a co-founder of initiatives that bridged research with activism. Her efforts to build more just and sustainable relationships between humans and nature touched many lives and continue to resonate through the organizations and communities she helped shape.
Beyond her professional achievements, Sheila was a beloved friend, daughter, and partner. She brought humor, intensity, and warmth into every room she entered. Her sudden loss is a profound shock to those who knew her—students, colleagues, fellow activists, and friends who relied on her insight, support, and fierce belief in making the world a better place.
As tributes pour in from across Canada and internationally, one thing is clear: Sheila Colla’s legacy is far-reaching. She has left an indelible mark on ecological science, environmental policy, and the lives of countless individuals who learned from her, worked with her, and were inspired by her.
